Lauryn Hill’s song Ex-Factor starts off by saying “it could all be so simple, but you’d rather make it hard“. The song is referring to a relationship, but I wonder how many other things in our life are simple that we’re making hard.

I remember one time I was hired for a position and based on the interview I had an expectation that I would be doing a specific thing. However, my manager, who did not participate in the hiring process, had me doing something different. I was frustrated and stressed out about it. Several people suggested that I simply talk to my manager, but I would always talk myself out of doing it.

Finally, when I couldn’t take it anymore, I, in much nicer words, asked my manager at what point could I start doing what I expected. Her answer was simple. She said, “starting today”. It was all a simple misunderstanding.

On today, I challenge you to recognize that some things and situations are not as complicated as we’re making itout to be.

For as long as I can remember, my mother has always said, “God didn’t promise that all our days would be easy”.

I believe her.

I know it’s true.

I know all things will work together for my good in the end (Romans 8:28).

What I don’t believe is that I always have to like what’s happening. Some things are painful to go through. Some things don’t make sense. It doesn’t mean I don’t trust God. It just means I’m human and it hurts!

On the day of the final exam, the professor gave every student the option of receiving a “C” on the exam without taking it. More than half the class accepted the “C” and left. The professor passed out the exam to those who remained. Before he allowed them to turn the exam over, he encouraged them and told them they would do great things in life. When the students turned the exam over, it had two sentences: Congratulations! You made an “A”!

What would you have done in that situation? What do you believe about yourself today? Do you belief you are worth a “C” because an “A” seems impossible, or out of your reach?

I challenge you to raise your expectations for what you will do. Raise your expectations for what you can have.

If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

There have only been a few people in my lifetime, I felt I could do without. I quoted Romans 12:18 as my justification to not deal with them. I told the Lord, “you said IF it be possible, and with this person it’s just not possible“.

It wasn’t until today that I realized I skipped over, whether intentionally or unintentionally, a critical piece of that scripture – as much as lieth in YOU!

Another translation reads, Do all that YOU can to live in peace with everyone. Another version reads, If it is possible, as much as depends on YOU, live peaceably with all men.Continue reading →

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“There are always flowers for those who want to see them.” Henri Matisse

At the end of last year, I committed to doing some contract work for a private adoption agency. I quickly regretted it. The contract requirements and duties often conflicted with my personal beliefs and values.Continue reading →

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